“Natalia, why are you being so unreasonable? What good will this do for you, for me, or for your fiancé?” Ashley's voice trembled as tears streamed down her cheeks. It was evident that the backlash had taken a toll on her; the netizens had not only unearthed her university details but had also exposed her home address. Suddenly, all her private information was out in the open, and she was visibly shaken by the consequences.
My mother let out a heavy sigh, her gaze filled with disappointment. “You really don’t understand, do you? I only said a few things to you yesterday. Why did you have to go and post this online? The internet is not a kind place. Don’t be so extreme, Natalia. This won’t do you or Finley any good.”
“You’re getting married soon!” she added, her tone sharp with urgency.
Just then, I could hear the commotion outside. It sounded like reporters and onlookers had gathered, blocking the hospital entrance, and I realized the storm I had unleashed was far from over.
The hospital administration finally took notice of the situation and decided to suspend my case for the time being. I had no choice but to pack my things and head home temporarily. At least I could rest well there; after all, rest was what I needed right now.
“Honestly, aren’t you just asking for trouble?” My mother nagged as she helped me pack, her voice laced with frustration. Meanwhile, Finley was much more straightforward.
“Natalia, you brought this on yourself. You deserve it.”
Ashley, her eyes glistening with tears, interjected softly, “I’m so sorry, Natalia. This is all my fault. Can you consider changing the article you posted online?”
She continued, taking the blame entirely upon herself. “Just put all the mistakes on me. I’m willing to accept responsibility. My lack of experience caused this mess.”
I watched her self-recrimination unfold, feeling a mix of frustration and disbelief.
“Natalia, you need to delete that article and apologize. The situation is too volatile,” my mother urged, her tone more serious now. “I advise you not to waste public resources like this.”
“Please, delete it and apologize, Natalia. It would give us some room to maneuver,” Finley added, his voice tense with urgency.
“Natalia, I’m begging you. If you delete it, I’ll apologize to you—just like that,” Ashley pleaded, desperation etched on her face.
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